Rain may affect first Test match

Bangalore, Oct 8 (UNI) The retreating south-west monsoon may bring some rains in the city during the next two days and spoil the play during the much awaited first cricket Test between India and Australia beginning here tomorrow.

According a weather bulletin from MET Department today there is a possibility of one or two light showers in the city.

However, this is unlikely to affect the play much as the stadium has good drainage facility in place with covers and super soppers to work on in the event of rains.

The MET Department bulletin, valid till October 10, said that the south-west monsoon was weak but rain or thundershower was likely. Maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 29 and 20 degree Celsius respectively.

The City has been receiving overnight rain since last four days and the Indian team which assembled here three days ahead of the match was restricted to indoor pitch at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on first two days.

According to Karnataka State Cricket Association Curator Narayana Raju light rain would not affect the pitch, which would be completely covered.

''Outfield may become wet but the stadium has very good drainage system and we have equipment to bring the field fit for play fast in the event of rains,'' he added.

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